The lead-up to key defender Mark Austin’s debut for the Western Bulldogs was a whirlwind, as he donned the red, white and blue guernsey as a late inclusion in Sunday’s win against Melbourne.
 
After quickly being elevated on from the rookie list last Thursday, Senior Coach Brendan McCartney informed Austin that he was in the mix for Sunday’s clash, naming him on the extended interchange bench.

To watch BulldogsTV's full post match interview with Mark Austin, click on the media player above.
 
“It all happened pretty quick, it kind of got acknowledged on Thursday from Macca that I was close,” Austin said.
 
Replacing Lukas Markovic in the final side, Austin’s flexibility in defence was an asset as the Bulldogs’ tried to nullify Melbourne’s forward options.
 
“I was happy to contribute, obviously I would have liked to not cramp in the last quarter and get on the spread a bit more and maybe get a bit of the ball but I guess that will come,” he said.
 
“I have been out injured for a little while so once I get that match fitness up hopefully I can contribute a bit more to the team.”
 
Solid form in the VFL earnt him the senior call up and Austin plans to continue pushing for selection to add to his 16 senior games.
 
“It was a great win for the boys, hopefully I am the luck charm and they keep me in all year - that would be nice,” he joked.
 
Austin joined the Bulldogs through the rookie draft last year after spending 5 years on Carlton’s senior list.